Born in Belmont, New Hampshire, he attended Belmont schools where he resided until 1954 moving to Laconia, New Hampshire. After retiring in 1996, he moved back to Belmont New Hampshire, and resided on the same land he was born and raised. He then moved to Port Charlotte, Florida in 2003.

He loved listening to music, being on the water, boating and water skiing. After retiring, he spent time feeding and watching the birds in his back yard.

He is predeceased by his parents and a son; Steven E. Fortier, and his only brother, Elwin Fortier.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years: Claire H. (Lapierre) Fortier. One son: Michael Fortier, and his wife, Gail, of Belmont, New Hampshire. Three daughters: Mrs. Jeanne Haynes and husband Michael of Port Charlotte Florida, Mrs. Donna Vachon and her husband Dana of Meredith, New Hampshire, Ms. Debra Fortier of Port Charlotte, Florida, eight grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. He had several nieces and nephews.

At his request there will be no services or calling hours.

Burial will be held at the Pineground Cemetery in Chichester, New Hampshire in the family lot at a later time.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

"He was a great guy and a wonderful friend. He really enjoyed the gettogethers we all had with Terry and Stacy (his granddaughter). He enjoyed talking with my sister, Joyce and especially liked the conversations he had with Poppi, my husband Robert. So glad we got to see him in rehab and visit with him. He will be greatly missed. Our joys will be greater, our lives fuller, because we happened to be part of your life. God Bless Donat."

"Sending our love to Aunt Claire and family. Uncle Donat was a very sweet and entertaining man. Dad missed seeing you, so now you are together again in Heaven. R.I.P. Uncle Donat The Lucille LaPierre family."

"Oh Grampy, I am so very sad that you are gone. My heart breaks but I know you are with Uncle Steve and no longer in pain. I love you so very much and I'm sorry I couldn't make it down in time to say good-bye but I will see you again. Until then I love you and please watch over Grammy for us. xoxox Gone but never forgotten."

"My Father passed when I was 15.Shortly after I met my loving wife Jeanne.Donats daughter.He has been like a second father to me ever since.He will surely be missed, and not forgotten !!!! Love you Dad !!!! R.I.P."